Lego Minifigure Collecting: Tips, Tricks, and Where to Find Them
If you’re unsure what to collect and are looking for something different, Lego Minifigures might just be the perfect place to start.
These little figures are more than just toys—they can be a fun, creative, and even nostalgic collection. Plus, the variety and endless possibilities make them a great way to express your interests. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to get started, what to look for, and how to build a Lego Minifigure collection that’s truly your own.
Why Collect Lego Minifigures?
Lego Minifigures are small, affordable, and come in a wide variety of themes. Whether you’re into superheroes, movies, or just want something quirky, there’s a minifig out there for you. They’re easy to display, and you don’t need much space to store them. If you’re someone who likes variety, this is an ideal collection because no two figures need to be the same.
They’re Affordable and Accessible
One of the biggest pain points for new collectors is cost. Some collectibles can get expensive fast, but Lego Minifigures are generally affordable. You can start small with just a few figures and gradually build your collection without breaking the bank.
Endless Variety
Lego Minifigures come in countless designs, from classic pirates and spacemen to characters from popular franchises like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Marvel. If you love a particular theme, you can focus on collecting minifigures related to that. And the best part? Lego is always releasing new figures, so your collection can keep growing.
How to Get Started with Lego Minifigure Collecting
If you’re new to collecting, starting can feel a little overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’ve got some tips that will help you start collecting in no time.
Start Small
It’s easy to get carried away when you first start collecting. You might feel like you need to buy every figure you see, but take it slow. Start with a few figures that catch your eye. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed, and you can figure out what themes you like best before diving into a bigger collection.
Set a Budget
Setting a budget is key when collecting anything. Decide how much you’re willing to spend each month on new minifigs and stick to it. This will help you avoid buyer’s regret and keep your collection manageable.
Choose a Theme or Go Random
When you’re collecting Lego Minifigures, there are two main approaches. You can either focus on a particular theme, like Star Wars or superheroes, or just collect the ones you like, regardless of the theme. Both methods have their pros. Sticking to a theme can give your collection a sense of cohesion, while going random allows for more variety and surprises.
Where to Find Lego Minifigures
Finding Lego Minifigures to add to your collection can be one of the most exciting parts of being a collector. Here are a few places where you can start your search:
Online Marketplaces
One of the easiest ways to find Lego Minifigures is through online marketplaces like eBay or Bricklink, BrickVille or Brickresales. These sites have a huge range of new and used figures, and you can often find rare or hard-to-get ones at a reasonable price. Just make sure to check the seller’s reviews to avoid any scams.
Local Toy Stores
Don’t forget about your local toy stores. Some still stock older Lego sets that contain collectible minifigs. If you’re lucky, you might find a rare figure sitting on the shelf waiting to be picked up!
Lego’s Official Store
Lego’s own website is another excellent resource for minifigs. They often sell exclusive figures or sets that you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, you can take advantage of special offers or sales.
How to Store and Display Your Lego Minifigures
Once you’ve started your collection, you’ll want to find a way to store and display your figures so they don’t get lost or damaged. Luckily, there are a lot of creative ways to show off your Lego Minifigures. Here are a few ideas.
Display Cases
One of the most popular ways to store and show off minifigs is by using display cases. You can find cases designed specifically for Lego Minifigures, which often include shelves or slots that keep each figure upright and in place.
Shelves or Shadow Boxes
If you want to create a unique display, using small shelves or shadow boxes can be a great way to go. You can mount these on the wall and arrange your figures in a way that’s both creative and space-efficient.
Plastic Bins or Drawers
If you don’t have the space to display all your figures, you can store them in archival bins or drawers. Just make sure to keep each figure in a separate compartment or use small bags to avoid scratches.
The Hunt for Rare Lego Minifigures
Some Lego Minifigures are rarer than others, which makes them even more valuable to collectors. If you love the thrill of the hunt, seeking out these rare figures can be a fun challenge.
Limited Edition Minifigures
Lego often releases limited edition minifigs that are only available in certain sets or during special promotions. Keep an eye out for these as they tend to increase in value over time.
Retired Figures
When Lego retires a figure or set, it becomes much harder to find, making those figures highly sought after by collectors. If you have your heart set on a retired figure, be prepared to pay a premium, as these can be pricey.
Where to Find Collectible Minifigs
Finding rare or collectible minifigs can be tricky, but knowing where to look can make all the difference.
| Source | Description |
|---|---|
| AMAZON | A massive marketplace where you can find just about any minifigure. |
| Bricklink | A Lego-focused marketplace with a wide selection of minifigs from all over the world. |
| Local Toy Shows | Sometimes, toy shows or conventions will have sellers offering rare minifigures. |
| Lego Official Store | Limited edition or exclusive minifigs can sometimes be found here. |
There’s one more option that you may not have thought of but is an excellent place to find rare lego minifigs if you’re on at the right time and that’s Etsy.
Normally known for it’s arts and crafts, Etsy also has a great range of collectibles and m any times I have found rare collectibles at an awesome price. Click on the image below to see what minifigs they have right now and check in regularly.
How to Connect with Other Lego Minifigure Collectors
Collecting Lego Minifigures is more fun when you share it with others. Connecting with other collectors allows you to trade, get advice, or simply talk about your collection.
Facebook Groups
A great place to start is on Facebook. Some of the more popular groups are LEGO COLLECTORS, Custom Lego minifigures & sets Buy/Sell/Trade/live auction and Worldwide Adult Fans Of Lego (AFOL) Photo’s,discussions,sales,help and Tips where you can meet other Lego fans, trade figures, and get advice on collecting.
Reddit Communities
Reddit also has some dedicated Lego communities over at r/lego, r/legominifigure and r/legominifigs These groups are full of fellow collectors who share their finds, tips, and tricks. They’re great places to ask questions or post pictures of your collection.
Tips for Buying Authentic Lego Minifigures
When buying minifigs, especially online, it’s important to ensure you’re getting the real deal. Here are a few tips to help you avoid fake figures.
Know What to Look For
Lego Minifigures have specific markings that help identify them as authentic. Look for the Lego logo on the figure’s head, torso, and legs. Fake figures often lack these details or have poorly made parts.
Buy From Reputable Sellers
Whether you’re shopping online or in person, always buy from sellers with a good reputation that sell on a respected platform like Amazon. Check reviews, and don’t be afraid to ask the seller questions about the figure’s origin if you’re unsure.
Should You Keep Your Lego Minifigures in the Box?
If you’re collecting Lego Minifigures purely for the fun of it, feel free to take them out of the box and enjoy them! But if you’re hoping to sell them later on, keeping them in their original packaging can increase their value.
In-Box vs. Out-of-Box
There’s a debate among collectors about whether figures should stay in the box or be displayed out of it. Personally, I think it depends on why you’re collecting. If it’s for nostalgia or fun, let those minifigs breathe! But if you’re a serious investor, keeping them boxed might be the better option.
Protecting Your Prized Lego Minifigure Collection
When it comes to keeping your prized minifigure collectibles safe, you might want to consider an alarm system for added peace of mind. It’s a simple step to help protect those special items and make sure they’re secure. Plus, it never hurts to have a little extra security!
The good news is, security alarm systems aren’t as expensive as you might think—they can range anywhere from around $50 for a basic model up to a few hundred dollars, so there’s something for every budget. Click here to see the massive range of home security options available.
Conclusion: Why Lego Minifigures Are the Perfect Unique Collectible
At the end of the day, Lego Minifigures are a fantastic way to collect something unique and fun.
They’re small, affordable, and come in endless designs. Whether you’re sticking to a theme or picking out random figures, each minifig has its own charm.
Plus, you get to be part of a larger community of collectors who share your passion. So, if you’re looking for something outside of the ‘norm,’ give Lego Minifigures a shot.
You might just find yourself building a collection that’s both personal and meaningful.
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